Seasonal News & Tips

Check back often for seasonal tips about what's going on in our area, updates on local pest and disease outbreaks, weather impacts, and more.

A redbud tree with spring blossoms grows amongst other trees and plants.

Apr 22 2021

Tree Planting Tip: Buy the Right Size Tree

We’re often asked whether it’s better to plant a larger tree than a small one, especially if you want it to make an impact in your landscape more quickly. In this tree planting tip article, we explain how to choose the best size tree to plant and why.

Mulch is placed around a tree by a tree and landscape professional from Independent Tree

Mar 22 2021

Using Wood Chips as Mulch: FAQs

Wood mulch is a layer of organic material used to cover the soil surface. This post answers all your questions about wood chips and wood mulch, how it benefits your garden, what to do (and not do!) with it, how to find it locally, and more.

Feb 23 2021

Helping Bent-Over Trees Recover From Ice & Snow Loads

We cover what you need to know about dealing with snow and ice-damaged trees or shrubs (bent over, broken, leaning, etc.), plus how to prevent snow and ice damage in the first place.

A light dusting of snow on a variety of plants and trees in an Ohio yard

Jan 28 2021

How to Bring Color and Life to your Northeast Ohio Winter Landscape

We share our favorite ways to bring color and dimension to your winter landscape, as well as tips to provide valuable food and shelter for wildlife.

A bald eagle perches on the top branches of a snag, or dead tree in Ohio

Dec 13 2020

How Dead Trees Benefit Wildlife [Even on Your Own Property!]

Learn how dead trees support the environment, safety considerations, and what to do with a dead tree on your property to help wildlife (removal may not be the only or best option!).

Nov 18 2020

How to Tell if a Branch is Dead or Alive

Signs that indicate whether a branch or twig is dead or just dormant, why it's important to know the difference, and what to do if it's dead.

Oct 22 2020

My Conifers Are Losing Needles! Should I Be Concerned?

Learn what’s normal when it comes to evergreen conifers losing needles, why it happens, and when to be concerned about dropped needles.

Sep 24 2020

Why Do Tree Leaves Change Color in Fall?

Learn why and how leaves on deciduous trees change color and then drop to the ground in fall (hint: it's caused by pigments).

Chlorosis shows up as dark green veins on lighter green leaves on this dogwood tree in Ohio

Aug 19 2020

Chlorosis in Trees & Shrubs: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

If your tree's leaves turn yellow while the veins stay green, it's probably chlorosis. Learn what causes it, how to distinguish chlorosis from other leaf problems, ways to prevent it, and how to treat the symptoms.

tar spot fungus on sycamore maple leaves - green leaves with dark spots looking up into the tree

Jul 16 2020

Maple Tar Spot: Identification, Prevention & Treatment

If the leaves on your maple trees have dark, round spots that look like they’ve been splashed with tar, it’s probably a fungal disease called maple tar spot. Learn what to look for, how it spreads, and what to do about it.

What's Next?

Things are constantly changing in Northeast Ohio - weather, pests, and tree diseases all affect your landscape. Stay on top of what's going on so you can keep your trees and yard safe, healthy and beautiful.

Call us at 440-564-1374